American Airlines updates emotional support animal policy
American Airlines has tweaked its emotional support animal policy becoming the latest airline to ban puppies and kittens.
Following similar policy updates by United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, American will only allow cats and dogs older than four months to travel as emotional support animals.
"Animals under this age usually have not received the necessary vaccinations that protect team members and customers,” the airline said.
"American supports the rights of customers, from veterans to people with disabilities, with a legitimate need for a trained service or support animals."
Customers are permitted only one emotional support animal and must produce documentation to verify its health and immunization.
Trained service animal are still permitted.
The new rules take effect from April 1.
American said a survey of 18,000 people found 58% only wanted trained service dogs n the cabin.
"Unfortunately, untrained animals can lead to safety issues for team members, customers and working service and support animals," the airline added.
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